How One Tulsa Brewery Is Helping Build Global Talent

When people think of international internships, they rarely picture a craft brewery in Tulsa. Most imagine large technology companies, engineering firms, advertising agencies, research organizations, or multinational corporations. Yet, a Japanese university student studying fermentation is gaining hands-on experience at a Tulsa craft brewery, bringing together ancient brewing tradition, academic study, and Tulsa entrepreneurship.

Hosting International Talent in Tulsa Through the BridgeUSA Intern Program

This summer, Nothing's Left Brewery partnered with Cenet to host Riku Kachi, a university student from Japan, through the U.S. Department of State's BridgeUSA Intern Program, commonly referred to as the J-1 Intern Program. During her time in Tulsa, she's gaining hands-on experience in the science, artistry, and business of fermentation. While her story is unique, it reflects a broader trend: Tulsa's growing desire to connect local organizations with emerging talent from around the world.

For the founders of the brewery, Lacy and Travis Richards, that journey started with a conversation. Looking for guidance on how to host an international intern, they reached out to Tulsa Global Alliance (TGA), long recognized as one of the region's leading connectors for international engagement. Recognizing that the opportunity aligned with Cenet's expertise, TGA connected the brewery with the Cenet team, turning an idea into reality.

For many organizations, hosting an international intern may seem unfamiliar or complex. Cenet makes the process simple and manageable, guiding organizations through each step to create a structured, meaningful experience that benefits both the intern and the host organization.

“Riku’s internship with Nothing’s Left has been a great adventure!” – Lacy Richards

This partnership was a natural fit. Lacy had previously experienced international cultural exchange through Tulsa Global Alliance, helping shape her appreciation for the value of global relationships. Both she and Travis had also recently traveled to Japan, deepening their appreciation for its culture, craftsmanship, and traditions. Hosting a Japanese intern wasn't simply about adding another member to the team, it was an opportunity to continue building the kinds of international relationships they value.

“Riku’s internship with Nothing’s Left has been a great adventure!” Lacy Richards, the brewery’s owner, said. “Her degree in general fermentation is important to us for trying new styles and exploring cultural opportunities. Since it’s one of her first experiences in the US, she is not only fulfilling her goal of interning at an American brewery but all the nuances of living in a busy Midwestern city.”

For Riku, the experience is equally intentional.

As a university student studying fermentation, the internship directly complements her academic focus. Rather than solely observing from a classroom, she is experiencing the day-to-day realities of an American craft brewery, learning production techniques, quality standards, workplace culture, and the collaboration that goes into creating great beer. At the same time, she brings her own expertise, perspective, and cultural experiences to the brewery. It's precisely what the BridgeUSA Intern Program was designed to accomplish.

As Riku shared, “Until now, I had only ever brewed beer on a small scale, so this is where I’m learning to brew on a practical scale. One of the great things is that I’m able to learn about brewing and seasoning sour beers and other beers with a variety of flavors that are not very common in Japan.”  She continued: “Life in Tulsa is full of surprises every day. This isn’t related to the brewery, but I was surprised by how many drive-thrus there were. There are no drive-thru ATMs in Japan!”

“One of the great things is that I’m able to learn about brewing and seasoning sour beers and other beers with a variety of flavors that are not very common in Japan.” – Riku Kachi

These opportunities also demonstrate something increasingly important about Tulsa.

As the city's economy continues to diversify, organizations of every size are discovering that global talent isn't reserved for multinational corporations or coastal innovation hubs. Tulsa's entrepreneurial spirit, collaborative community, and welcoming culture make it an ideal place for meaningful professional exchange. Whether it's a startup, a nonprofit, a manufacturer, or even a neighborhood brewery, local employers have something valuable to teach and something valuable to learn.

Building Tulsa’s Global Talent and Innovation Economy

As a BridgeUSA sponsor based in America’s Heartland, Cenet saw in Tulsa what many others are beginning to see: a city where innovation, entrepreneurship, and global engagement are creating new opportunities. Establishing a local presence in Tulsa was a natural extension of Cenet’s commitment to expanding access to international exchange across America’s Heartland. Tulsa is proving that building an innovation economy requires more than capital, it requires talent, ideas, and global connections.Through partnerships with organizations across sectors, Cenet helps connect international interns, specialists, researchers, and other professionals with experiences that strengthen employers, develop global talent, and reinforce Tulsa's growing reputation as a place where innovation and international exchange go hand in hand.

For Riku, the experience is helping shape her future career. For the brewery, it's brought fresh perspectives and friendships. And for Tulsa, it's another example of how international exchange continues to strengthen the city's connection to the world.

Discover How Your Organization Can Host an International Intern

If you would like to learn more about how your organization can host a BridgeUSA Intern orTrainee, contact Cenet today!